Shirley Washington 443-***-**** *******************@*****.***
Strategic Talent Leader Compliance & Risk Management Workforce Development
Results-driven and people-focused HR Executive with over 15 years of experience delivering impactful human resources leadership across diverse industries. Adept at aligning people strategies with organizational goals, reducing risk exposure, and cultivating high-performing, engaged teams. Recognized for transforming HR departments into strategic business partners and for driving initiatives that improve compliance, retention, and operational efficiency.
Core Competencies
Strategic Workforce Planning
Talent Acquisition & Retention
Risk Management & Safety Compliance
Employment Law & Regulatory Compliance (EEO, ADA, FMLA, OSHA, DOT)
Employee Relations & Conflict Resolution
HR Audits & Data Analytics
HRIS Implementation
Leadership Development & Coaching
Professional Experience
Quick Servant Company Inc. – Columbia, MD
Human Resources Director 2022 – Present
Lead all HR operations and strategy for a multi-site commercial HVAC and foodservice equipment service provider, supporting 150+ employees.
Implemented a comprehensive workforce engagement strategy, decreasing turnover by 12% and improving employee satisfaction.
Streamlined payroll and HR data processes, increasing accuracy and reducing administrative time by 30%.
Designed and enforced a proactive safety program, resulting in a measurable reduction in workplace accidents and workers’ compensation claims.
Advised executive leadership on workforce planning, organizational development, and retention strategies.
Conducted internal audits and leveraged data analytics to drive decisions on turnover trends, compensation benchmarks, and training effectiveness.
Delivered bias prevention, compliance, and supervisory training to leadership to enhance manager effectiveness and legal compliance.
Capitol Technology University – Laurel, MD
Director of Human Resources & Risk Management 2021 – 2022
Directed HR and institutional risk strategy for a private STEM-focused university during a critical post-COVID transition.
Conducted enterprise-wide risk assessments and implemented mitigation plans, including continuity and recovery protocols.
Modernized employee policies and HR practices to align with evolving compliance and workforce needs.
Developed compensation and incentive programs aligned with institutional benchmarks to improve recruitment and retention.
Created key performance indicators to assess talent strategies and HR program success.
Supported executive leadership with organizational design, budget planning, and strategic HR decision-making.
TL Transportation – Annapolis, MD
Human Resources Director 2016 – 2020
Oversaw rapid HR scale-up for a growing logistics company, expanding from 30 to over 1,500 employees across multiple states.
Developed a scalable HR infrastructure including HRIS systems, policy frameworks, and compliance protocols.
Managed all facets of HR compliance across federal, state, and local jurisdictions.
Led HR investigations and advised senior management on high-risk employee matters.
Built and mentored an HR team to support field operations, resulting in increased service delivery and reduced turnover.
Partnered with legal counsel and executive leadership on employment practices and litigation readiness.
North Star Special Services – Pikesville, MD
Human Resources Manager 2015 – 2016
Directed full-scope HR services for a behavioral health organization, supporting exempt and non-exempt staff.
Implemented new compensation structures and revised job descriptions to ensure equity and role clarity.
Streamlined recruitment, onboarding, and benefits administration processes for improved candidate experience.
Conducted staff training, policy implementation, and regulatory documentation in compliance with labor standards.
Recommended policy enhancements that improved departmental efficiency and employee engagement.
Gray & Son, Inc. – Timonium, MD
HR & Safety Specialist 2013 – 2015
Supported human resources and safety compliance for a civil construction firm with union and non-union staff.
Administered health benefits, COBRA, FMLA, 401(k), and workers’ compensation programs.
Coordinated hiring, onboarding, and drug testing compliance, including MDOT regulatory requirements.
Maintained all personnel records and ensured legal compliance with employment and safety standards.
Provided hands-on support in employee relations, handbook updates, and internal investigations.
Education & Certification
B.A. in Business Administration, Human Resources
Florida Institute of Technology 2015
Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
HR Certification Institute (HRCI)